In the spring of 1934, we launched our first Easter “seals” campaign to raise money for our services. The seals were stickers about the same size as postage stamps, and donors placed them on envelopes and letters to show their support.

Aloha, Senator Daniel Inouye

We at Easter Seals are joining the nation this week in mourning the passing of United States Sen. Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii). Inouye long championed the cause of justice and equality for all Americans, including people living with disabilities and other special needs.

Inouye lost an arm in World War II combat, and he paid special attention to the needs of military service members, veterans and wounded warriors. In 2011, Easter Seals affiliates Serving Maryland, Virginia and Washington, DC honored Sen. Inouye with its Advocacy Award, and in his very poignant acceptance speech during that awards dinner Senator Inouye humanized how difficult the experience is for military families when their loved ones leave for combat and they are separated.

As Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Inouye directed our nation’s resources to investments in children and adults with disabilities and their families. In his 53 years in Congress representing Hawaii, he contributed to the passage of major legislation that ensures people with disabilities can live, learn, work and play in their communities, including the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1975, the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 and countless other civil rights laws for people with disabilities.

Thank you for a life of service, Senator Inouye. You will be deeply missed.